One of the Black Country’s most celebrated markets commended at national awards

Bilston Indoor Market – now in its 50th year – achieved the accolade in the Great British Market Awards 2024, which recognises the achievements of retail and wholesale markets.

The news comes as the town’s neighbouring outdoor market prepares to celebrate its 200th anniversary this year with a £5.2 million redevelopment, which will see the introduction of new retail units and public toilets, a flexible space where events can be hosted and a taller canopy to cover stalls.

Bilston Indoor Market was praised by awards judges as one of the markets exhibiting “exceptional dedication and innovation in serving their local communities”.

Councillor Craig Collingswood, cabinet member for environment and climate change, said: “This is a marvellous accolade for Bilston Indoor Market and a real credit to the traders, staff and the customers who all contribute to make this such a thriving and friendly place to shop.

“At a time when a number of indoor markets are closing, I am really happy to say that Bilston is still going strong and we have full occupancy on stalls in the indoor market as well as outdoor.

“We’re all looking forward to the fantastic redevelopments to come at the outdoor market which will offer an even better shopping experience.

"Bilston attracts people from miles around and I would urge anyone who hasn’t been to come down and see for yourself what all the fuss is about.”

Leader of Wolverhampton Council, Councillor Stephen Simkins, spoke of his pride for the markets which he visits each week.

He added: "Bilston Markets is undoubtedly one of our greatest assets. It is the very lifeblood of the town – a place that is always buzzing.

"It is where you can build up a rapport with the traders and where people regularly meet family and friends.

“As a proud Bilstonian, I have been going there every week my entire life – ever since my mother used to take me as a lad.

"It is unique and has won countless ‘best market’ awards over the years. People regularly come in from places like Solihull and Coventry just to shop at Bilston Markets. What makes it work is the people and the traders.

“Redeveloping the outdoor market will ensure its long-term sustainability alongside the town’s new health hub, but we will be certain to make sure it still has the old-fashioned buzz of a traditional market. There is a lot of history there."

Deputy mayor Councillor Linda Leach described the markets as "the jewel in Bilston’s crown".

She said: "Many generations of Bilston folk and people from much further afield have done their shopping there.

"You couldn’t wish for a better place to pick up good quality foods, fresh meat, fruit and vegetables – you name it, they sell it.

"It is such a welcoming place where you know you will always bump into a friendly face for a catch up.

"The outdoor market has been around for 200 years, and with investment and some care and attention, it will continue to do so for generations of shoppers for many years to come."

Bilston Indoor Market has a long and proud history, with the market hall celebrating its 50th birthday last March.

It currently has 88 stalls with 42 traders and clocked up 1.7 million visits in 2023 – an increase of 20 per cent on the previous year.

The outdoor market hosts 117 stalls and the whole site hosts regular craft markets as well as young traders events.

The redevelopment is supported by money from the Town’s Fund and also includes the enhancement of the entrance off the Black Country Route.

For more information about Bilston Markets and how to become a trader visit wolverhampton.gov.uk/markets or call 01902 555200.